Hospital charity care: how to qualify and apply (by state)
Nonprofit hospitals must offer financial assistance. Learn the federal rules, typical income limits, how to apply, and your state's rules.
The federal rule
Nonprofit (501(c)(3)) hospitals must have a written Financial Assistance Policy (FAP), publish it, limit charges for eligible patients to the amounts generally billed to insured patients, and accept applications for at least 240 days after the first post-discharge bill (IRS).
Who qualifies
Each hospital sets its own income limits. Many offer free care up to 200% of the federal poverty level and discounts above that, and some states set higher minimums. You can apply even if you have insurance.
How to apply
Find the FAP on the hospital's website or ask billing for it. Fill out the application, attach proof of income, and ask them to pause collections while it's reviewed. Apply even if you've already been billed or sent to collections, as long as it's within the window.
Free help applying
Dollar For is a nonprofit that checks whether you qualify for hospital charity care and helps you apply, for free. If money is tight, start there. Then scan your bill for errors either way.
Rules in your state
Some states add their own protections. Pick yours: charity care and billing rights by state.
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Scan my bill free →FAQ
Can a hospital send me to collections while my application is pending?
Nonprofit hospitals have to make reasonable efforts to determine FAP eligibility before taking extraordinary collection actions.
Does charity care cover bills I already paid?
Some hospitals refund payments made within the application window. Ask.
Are for-profit hospitals required to offer charity care?
The federal FAP rule applies to nonprofit hospitals. Some states require charity care from all hospitals.
Educational information, not legal advice. Laws and deadlines change, so verify with official sources. More guides: How to dispute a medical bill · How to request an itemized medical bill (free letter template) · No Surprises Act dispute · Medical billing error checklist · ER bill too high? What to check and how to fight it · BillRebuttal vs. hiring a medical bill advocate · BillRebuttal vs. Dollar For